Bhutan Private Tours: The Spirit of Bhutan Tour – 6 Days

 Highlights of the Trip

Exploring the hidden gems of Bhutan on the Spirit of Bhutan tour is a great way to get the most out of your 6-day stay after flying to Bhutan in this beautiful and secluded Himalayan kingdom.

The Spirit of Bhutan tour is one of our specialist Bhutan packages and an experience that you will never forget. From breath-taking hikes to spiritual visits to traditional temples, you will experience the best that Bhutan has to offer in just 6 days.

You will visit the destinations of Paro, Thimphu and Punakha. Visiting popular sites that chart the history of Bhutan and the cultures of the people and local markets in each destinations including Kyichu Lhakhang, Taktshang Monastery, Memorial Chorten, Trashicho Dzong, Tango Monastery, Dochula Pass, Chhimi Lhakhang, Punakha Dzong, Singay Drak Monastery and Paro Dzong.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Paro

• Kyichu Lhakhang: This ancient Buddhist temple, located in Paro, is one of the oldest and most sacred in Bhutan. It is believed to have been built in the 7th century by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to subdue a demon that was obstructing the spread of Buddhism.
• Dzongdrakha and Dzongdrakha Lhakhang: Dzongdrakha is a group of four temples perched on a cliff in Paro valley, while Dzongdrakha Lhakhang is the main temple among them. It is a popular pilgrimage site and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Tiger’s Nest Hike: The Tiger’s Nest, also known as Paro Taktsang, is the most iconic and must-visit destination in Bhutan. It is a sacred monastery built on a cliff at an altitude of 3,120 meters and can be reached by a challenging trek through lush forests and steep trails.
• Paro Valley: This picturesque valley is the gateway to Bhutan for most tourists. It is surrounded by mountains and is home to many important cultural sites.

Thimphu

• Buddha Point: This is a gigantic statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, located on a hilltop in Thimphu. It is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world and offers panoramic views of the city.
• The National Memorial Chorten: This stupa, built in memory of the third king of Bhutan, is a popular place of worship for locals and tourists alike. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers a peaceful atmosphere for meditation.
• Tango Monastery: Situated in Thimphu, Tango Monastery is a Buddhist monastery founded in the 13th century. It is a popular destination for meditation retreats and offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
• Pangrizampa: This is a monastic school located in Thimphu, which offers courses in Buddhist studies, astrology, and traditional medicine. It is a great place to learn about Bhutanese culture and traditions.

Punakha

• Dochula Pass (en-route): Located at an altitude of 3,100 meters, Dochula Pass is a picturesque mountain pass en-route to Punakha. It offers stunning views of the Himalayas and is home to 108 chortens (stupas) built by the Queen Mother of Bhutan.
• Chimi Lhakhang: This temple, dedicated to the ‘Divine Madman’ – Drukpa Kunley, is known for its unique fertility rituals. It is a popular pilgrimage site and offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s religious beliefs.
• Punakha Dzong: This beautiful fortress, located at the confluence of two rivers, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bhutan. It is also the second largest and oldest dzong in the country.
• Singay Drak Monastery: This monastery, situated in Paro, is known for its unique architecture and stunning location. It is built on a cliff and offers breathtaking views of the Paro valley.
• Parovalley Town: Located in the Paro Valley, this town is surrounded by lush green forests and offers some of the most stunning views in Bhutan. It is also home to several ancient temples and monasteries, making it a popular destination for spiritual seekers.
• Paro Dzong: Also known as Rinpung Dzong, this is an impressive fortress-monastery located in Paro. It is one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan and is a popular tourist attraction.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Take a Trekking Tour of The Tiger Nest Monastery: This sacred site is perched on a cliff at an altitude of 3,120 meters and is believed to be the birthplace of Buddhism in Bhutan. The trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Hike to Tango Monastery and Learn About Buddhist Teachings: A hike to Tango Monastery is not just a physical activity, but also a spiritual one. The monastery, located on top of a hill, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. As you make your way up, you will come across prayer flags fluttering in the wind and locals performing their daily rituals. Once you reach the monastery, you can learn about Buddhist teachings from the monks and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere.

Enjoy Dinner with a Local Bhutanese Family in Pangrizampa: One of the best ways to experience the local culture of Bhutan is by dining with a Bhutanese family. In Pangrizampa, a small village located near the capital city of Thimphu, you can enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal with a local family. This experience not only allows you to taste authentic Bhutanese cuisine but also gives you a glimpse into the daily lives and traditions of the locals. You can also engage in conversations with the family to learn more about their culture and way of life.

Hike and Explore Historic Sites in the Punakha Valley: The Punakha Valley offers a plethora of historic sites to explore. From the Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful and important fortresses in Bhutan, to the Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to fertility, each site has a unique story to tell and offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history.

Stroll Through Local Markets in the Paro Dzong: The Paro Dzong, a fortress-monastery located in the Paro Valley, is not only a popular tourist spot but also a bustling hub for local markets. As you walk through the narrow streets of the dzong, you will come across vendors selling a variety of goods, from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and souvenirs. This is the perfect place to interact with the locals, try some local delicacies, and pick up unique souvenirs to take back home.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Bhutan

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region. One of the best ways to experience the unique culture of Bhutan is through its authentic dishes. Bhutanese cuisine is a blend of traditional Tibetan, Indian and Chinese flavours, with a strong emphasis on locally grown ingredients. Some must-try dishes include Ema Datshi, a spicy dish made with chili peppers and cheese, and momos, steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables. Other dishes like Phaksha Paa, a pork dish cooked with radishes and chilies, and Jasha Maru, a spicy chicken stew, are also popular among locals and visitors alike. These authentic dishes not only tantalize the taste buds but also offer a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of Bhutan.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Go Rafting in the Punakha Valley: For those seeking adventure, rafting in the Punakha Valley is a must. The Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers offer exciting rapids and stunning views of the valley, making it a thrilling and memorable experience.

Enjoy a Hot Stone Bath or Dhotsho: The hot stone bath, or Dhotsho, is a traditional Bhutanese practice that has been passed down for generations. It involves heating river stones and placing them in a wooden tub filled with water and local herbs. The heat from the stones releases medicinal properties from the herbs, creating a therapeutic bath that is said to have healing benefits. This experience is not only relaxing but also provides a unique insight into Bhutanese traditional medicine and its connection to nature.

Accommodation of this Tour

Paro: Zangtopleri Hotel or similar

Thimphu: Hotel Pedling or similar

Pangrizampa: Overnight stay in Local Family Farmhouse

Bhutan Rural Village: Overnight Stay in Farmhouse

Paro Valley: Mandala Resort or similar

To discover more of our Bhutan private tours, browse our website or contact us for more information.

Itinerary

Day 1 Paro Arrival, Kyichu Lhakhang, Dzongdrakha Lhakhang, Paro Valley & Paro Town

You will start your journey in the city of Paro. Upon arrival, your day will be filled with amazing sites such as the Kyichu Lhakhang, a beautiful Buddhist temple, Dzongdrakha and Dzongdrakha Lhakhang, two sanctuaries overlooking the Paro valley. Afterwards, take some time to explore the Paro town and get a feel for the local life.

Accommodation at Zangtopleri or similar standard hotel.

✓ Dinner

Day 2 Tiger’s Nest Hike, Drive to Thimphu, Thimphu Tour Including Trashicho Dzong

Today you will embark on a journey to visit the iconic Tiger’s Nest (Taktshang Monastery). This incredible monastery is situated high up on the cliff face of a mountain, and its awe-inspiring grandeur will leave you breathless! After that, you will explore Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. You will see the beautiful Buddha Point overlooking the valley, and the sacred Memorial Chorten and Trashicho Dzong. Free time in the evening to appreciate the capital.

Accommodation at Hotel Pedling or similar standard.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 3 Tango Monastery Hike, Pangrizampa, Hot Stone Bath & Local Bhutanese Dinner

The day will start with an early morning hike to Tango Monastery. Here, you will learn about Buddhist teachings and the monastic life as you explore the monastery and its surroundings. After the hike, you will visit Pangrizampa, where you will be treated to a traditional Bhutanese dinner with a local family and experience a local hot stone bath. Overnight stay at Farmhouse.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 4 Drive to Punakha Via Dochula Pass, Chimi Lhakhang & Punakha Dzong

In the morning you will go for a drive to the famous Dochula Pass. Strategically placed on the side of a mountain, the pass has breath-taking views of the Bhutanese countryside. You will then continue your journey to Chhimi Lhakhang, a temple said to be blessed by the Divine Madman, before ending the day with a visit to the majestic Punakha Dzong. Evening to enjoy at your leisure.

Accommodation at Zangtopleri or similar standard hotel.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 5 Singay Drak Monastery Hike, Paro Valley & Paro Dzong

The fifth day will begin with another hike, this time to the Singay Drak Monastery. It is one of the oldest monasteries in the country, and its archway entrance will make you feel like you are walking into a different world. After the hike, enjoy a peaceful and scenic drive through the Paro Valley. You will then visit the Paro Dzong and stroll through the local markets.

Accommodation at Mandala Resort or similar standard hotel.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 6 Paro Free Time & Departure Flight

The final day of your journey will start with a free morning in Paro, where you can get one last glimpse of everything you’ve seen. In the afternoon, it will be time to depart and take home with you the wonderful memories of your Bhutanese adventure.

✓ Breakfast

To discover more of our Bhutan private tours, browse our website or contact us for more information.

Price

Price per person based on two-people group size: £1,265
– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing
– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays
**Daily fee of £100 per person per night is required for during your stay in Bhutan by the government.

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Summary

Day 1: Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, Dzongdrakha Lhakhang, and Paro Town.

Day 2: Witness the breathtaking Tiger’s Nest and explore Thimphu’s landmarks.

Day 3: Trek to Tango Monastery, experience Pangrizampa, and enjoy a local Bhutanese dinner.

Day 4: Drive through Dochula Pass, visit Chhimi Lhakhang, and explore Punakha Dzong.

Day 5: Hike to Singay Drak Monastery, explore Paro Valley, and visit Paro Dzong.

Day 6: Enjoy a free morning in Paro before departing for your next destination.

FAQs

1. What is the level of physical activity required for the Tiger’s Nest Hike?
   • The Tiger’s Nest Hike involves a challenging trek uphill, lasting approximately 4-5 hours. Participants should be in good physical condition.
2. Are vegetarian meal options available during the tour?
   • Yes, vegetarian meal options are available. Please inform us in advance of any dietary restrictions or preferences.
3. Is there any altitude sickness risk during the tour?
   • While some locations have higher altitudes, the itinerary is designed to allow for gradual acclimatization. However, it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before the trip.
4. Can I customize the tour itinerary or add extra days?
   • Yes, we offer customization options to suit your preferences. Contact our travel specialists to discuss any modifications or extensions to the itinerary.
5. What type of accommodations are provided during the tour?
   • Accommodations range from standard hotels to farmhouse stays, offering a mix of comfort and local experiences.
6. Are English-speaking guides available throughout the tour?
   • Yes, experienced English-speaking guides accompany the tour to provide insights into the cultural and historical significance of each destination.
7. Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
   • Travel insurance is not included in the standard package. We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances during your trip.